What Defines You as an Author?
There are many things that define an author.
Voice – Each author has his/her own voice. Certain distinctive patterns in one’s writing can identify them, making them stand out from the rest. Some authors use humor, others use surprise, shock or the unusual.
Genre – Do you write in one genre or multi-genes? The type of genres can define you as an author. Some authors are known for their rhythmic cadence in children’s books. Others excel in middle-grade, young adult fantasy, or adult subjects. Just write in the genres that touch your heart.
Focus – As an author you need to focus on what is important to you. Your focus can define you. Hone your craft and write daily in some form whether it be in a blog, creating a story or just jotting down some thoughts. The more you focus on writing the better you will become as a writer and author.
Goal – Whatever you endeavor to do in life you must first have a goal. Reaching your goal(s) will define you as a successful author. Define this/these goal(s) by asking yourself these questions.
1. What do I want to achieve?
2. How do I do this?
3. Where do I begin?
4. Will this make me happy?
Character – Your character is a part of you as an author. It defines you. It shines through to others as they read your work. Some authors put some of themselves in their books. Others use their life experiences, tragedies, joys to build their stories. The more you put of your own character into your books the more alive your books will be. You will be more successful in reaching your target audience. For, who knows us better than we know ourselves?
You can put these in alphabetical order to better remember them.
Character
Focus
Genre
Goals
Voice
As an author I find when I begin a new story I draw from my background, people I have met or seen, places I traveled or studied about and life experiences. I put myself into the story by acting out each scene as if I was in it. I laugh. I cry. I scream (not too loud). I act frightened, outraged or just incredulous over what I am taking part in order to infuse emotion into the scenes. In other words, I am an integral part of the story as I draw from my own experiences. I find this works for me but can be annoying to my husband who may be in earshot of my ramblings!
It is always easier and more authentic if one writes about what he/she knows. Otherwise, there will be tons of Googling to learn about things one doesn’t know about. There is nothing wrong, however, with learning something new every day. This keeps an author fresh and interesting as a person and as a writer.
Whatever you plan to do in your writing, please remember to do what makes you happy. Don’t worry about what others say. Don’t let those pesky 1 or 2 star reviews discourage you from living your dream. We can’t all be J K Rowling but we can be the best we can be through hard work, determination and perseverance.
Keep on writing! Readers out there, please keep on reading! We authors need you and love to hear from you! I enjoy hearing feedback on all my books.
Remember: READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY!
Please soar along with me and Jemsbooks!
Jemsbooks available on Amazon, BN, Create Space or directly from me signed, sealed and delivered with love. LOL! Email me for copies jjspina@myfairpoint.net. Put Book Order in Subject Line.
Thanks for stopping by!
Blessings!
-Janice-
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Wonderful post, Janice. Inside the box, outside the box… As you might have guessed, I would have said “What box?” because I don’t seem to even come close! LOL. Huge hugs.
That makes you unique, Teagan, and so wonderful! Hugs back! Xx
Reblogged this on Don Massenzio's Blog and commented:
Here is a great post on defining yourself as an author.
Thank you, Don, for sharing! 😄
You’re welcome. Great post
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
Janice Spina asks What defines you as an author.. head over and let her know. For me it is an extension of who I am.. writing about what interests, excites and makes me tick.
Excellent post Janice. Indeed, writing from the heart will shine through our writing. 🙂
Thank you, Debbie! Good thoughts are coming your way for you and your hubbie! ❤️
Thanks so much Janice. ❤
Janice, a great post! Thought it would be easy to write what I know…about my childhood life. However, the research has been extensive to include WWII history, and how it was growing up in those times! Include German grandparents in the mix! 💛 Elizabeth
Thank you CE! Best wishes with your writing! 😄
A wonderful post, Janice. Makes me smile, but words to chew on. 🙂
Thank you, Tess! 😘
You are welcome, Janice. 🙂
Reblogged this on theowlladyblog.
Thank you, Viv, for the reblog! ❤️
impressive, detailed and talent – Bravo
Thank you Mihrank! 😄
Hi Janice,
Sorry to impose, but… Could you please resend the information on how to stop Twitter notifications from going into my Email? Thanks!
Janice Wald
That must have been one of Hugh Roberts’ posts, I think. I will try to find it. 😃
Go to email setting in Twitter and you can decide there what to turn off/on. 😊
Hi Janice where do I find email settings? I saw settings notifications but not email settings.
Thank you
Janice
Go to settings, then notifications will give you an option not to receive messages.
Also go to privacy and you can shut off there too.
Hi Janice, I was able to follow your directions on a computer. Thank you so much for the help. When I get my Emails down below 10,000 again, I will have you to thank. =) Take care,
Janice
You are most welcome! I had to do the same thing. They get out of control. Enjoy the weekend! 😃